Self-Driven Tour of Scotland’s Castles and Scenic Lochs

This eight-day, seven-night self-guided tour of Scotland includes roundtrip airfare from and to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), three nights' lodging at Airth Castle, and three nights' lodging at Kingsmills Hotel. The deal also includes a six-day rental of a manual-transmission car, giving you the freedom to explore on your own. You’ll be granted entrance to more than 70 castles and historic locations along the way.

Suggested Stops

Stirling Castle: This 16th-century castle, located northwest of Glasgow, looks much as it did during the Renaissance—its rich interior is marked by ornate tapestries and stone carvings. Character actors dressed in period garb roam the halls, playing the roles of court officials, bodyguards, maids, and servants. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the historic events that took place within the great hall and royal chapel.

Edinburgh Castle: The most famous of all the Scottish castles, this monolith fortress dates back to the 13th century. Edinburgh Castle is the permanent home of the crown jewels of Scotland, including a 16th-century crown, scepter, and sword that are the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles. Be sure to check out the Stone of Destiny, a slab of rock where kings of Scotland were enthroned for centuries, and the National War Museum of Scotland, built in 1933.

The Highlands: Windswept bluffs, stunning lochs, and rolling green hills: the Highlands’ scenery is quintessential Scotland. Visit the famed Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s largest lakes, or ride a vintage steam train through the Glencoe area—the same ride Hogwarts students took on the way to their magical school during the filming of the Harry Potter movies. For a glimpse into the ancient history of the Highlands, stop by the Clava cairns, a cluster of prehistoric burial cairns dating back 4,000 years.

What You Get

Eight-day/seven-night vacation in Scotland with roundtrip airfare from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), standard hotel accommodations, and manual-transmission rental car. Six departure windows available from April to August, valid for weekday departures only. Click here to view all options and departure dates.

Note: All options priced per person and valid for a Travel with a Friend package (two Groupons required), or pay an additional $695 fee to travel solo. Read about package structures here.

Included in all options:

Roundtrip airfare on major carrier from and to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)